Fact or Fiction: Chemical Peels

When you think "chemical peel," do you have visions of doctors pouring burning chemicals over your face? Painful after-effects like shiny, itchy red skin? Take our quiz to find out how up-to-date your chemical peel knowledge is.

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Question 1 of 10

"Chemexfoliation" is another term for chemical peel.

fact

Chemical peels are also called "chemexfoliation" and "derma-peels."

fiction

almost fact: Chemical peels are also known as "dermoplastics."

Question 2 of 10

In a chemical peel, a doctor applies a chemical peel to your skin that penetrates deeply, "melting away" the older layers of skin.

fact

fiction

The chemicals cause the outer layer of skin to blister and peel off, revealing younger-looking skin.

almost fact: The chemicals actually rejuvenate the outer layers of the skin, making them appear younger.

Question 3 of 10

Chemical peels can be performed only on the face and neck.

fact

fiction

almost fact: It's face, neck and hands.

You can get a chemical peel on your face, neck or hands.

Question 4 of 10

A chemical peel can improve wrinkles, sags and bulges.

fact

fiction

Chemical peels have been shown to reduce fine lines and wrinkles, but for more deeper issues like sags and bulges you'll need another procedure.

almost fact: A peel doesn't really improve any of these issues -- it just makes your skin look healthier for a while.

Question 5 of 10

Precancerous keratoses (which appear as scaly spots) can be helped with a chemical peel.

fact

Chemical peels can improve precancerous keratoses and also prevent them from reappearing.

fiction

almost fact: A chemical peel plus a shot of collagen can improve the keratoses.

Question 6 of 10

People with fair skin and hair will see the most visible benefits from a chemical peel.

fact

True. If you have fair skin and light hair, you're a good candidate for a chemical peel.

fiction

almost fact: People with olive skin and dark hair are the best candidates.